Cancer in our animal companions increases in frequency as they age. In many cases it is a manageable chronic disease or completely curative by surgery. In other cases owners may elect to use the latest advances available in specialty practices or teaching hospitals including chemotherapy and radiation therapy to extend lives of their pets. Ultimately the goal of both the veterinarian and the owner is to support a good quality of life for our animal friends. Acupuncture can be an integral part of that support by controlling the symptoms of the cancer.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP MY PET?
Cancer can diminish energy level and appetite in our pets as well as cause chronic conditions like diarrhea, immune suppression and pain. Acupuncture and herbs can increase T-cell production to fight the cancer cells, regulate white cell production (often diminished in cancer or as result of chemotherapy), and regulate the immune system. It increases serotonin and endorphin levels, which diminish pain and increase a sense of well being. Acupuncture can stimulate appetite, increase energy, and control GI signs that accompany cancer and its treatment. Herbal mixtures can stimulate immunity also, and diminish blood supply to the cancer, helping the body to slow the cancer in some cases.
HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?
The number and frequency of sessions depend on the type of cancer and the symptoms of the pet. Initial treatments consist of 4 to 8 weekly sessions, which may become less frequent over time. Herbs are usually started after the first session. They may consist of mixtures designed to maintain body weight or control physical symptoms of the cancer or its treatment, or which complement the anti-tumor effects of any western therapy currently in progress.